Wednesday, October 03, 2007

Lee

This was not my intended post today, but something I needed to share. Last night we got a call saying that Toby's step-father, Lee, had died. Although it was not unexpected, it was still a shock probably because we had just left him Monday afternoon. His health had not been good for a long time. Earlier this summer I went to Lubbock for a week while he was in the hospital after having a stroke. Years ago, he had had by-pass surgery. Since then he has had a heart attack and high blood pressure problems. His continued smoking habit was not helping, and he was recently put on oxygen. But, Monday afternoon, he seemed to be doing well. He had been running his errands, taking care of his 90+ mother in a rest home, and going about life as usual. At 79 years old, we worried about him, but we were not expecting him to die any time soon. I guess no one ever expects death.

Lee was not Toby's father, but he had been a part of our family for 22 years. He married Toby's mom when Jesse was about three years old and Bo was six. He was a wonderful grandfather to my kids. I don't think they even knew he was not there real grandfather until they were older. Lee always showed an interest in their lives - always asked about them, and was sincerely interested in my children. I know he loved them like they were his own. Lee had five grand-daughters and one grandson of his own. While visiting with him this last week, he told me that Jesse and Lizzie (GBN1) were still the most intriguing little girls he ever knew - that there was just something unique about their personalities that just fascinated him. I know Jesse had a special place in his heart. For that, I am very thankful.

I am not sure at this point when the funeral will be, but we will head back to Lubbock when we know something.

6 comments:

Whether death comes suddenly or after a long illness, we are never fully prepared to say goodbye to loved ones. I am sorry for your loss. Please convey my condolences to Toby, Jesse, and Bo. Yes, like Buck says, I hope Toby's Mom is doing well. I remember all of you in prayer.

Lou - my deepest and most sincere sympathies. Losing a loved one - at any age - is always a harsh reality, expected or not. May the coming days of activities give you comfort as you pay a final tribute to a loving man.